Some of the most popular face masks on the market have ‘alarming flaws’, tests show, with the worst only trapping a third of bacterial particles.
Consumer group Which? tested a range of popular brands and styles of face coverings and masks for how well they filtered particles, how breathable they were, and how they fared after multiple washes.
The watchdog found that the best performing face covering was able to block more than 99% of potentially harmful bacterial particles, filtering just as well as a disposable mask, but the worst product only stopped a third of the particles passing through.
Some of the face coverings with high filtration claims on the packet did not live up to them in Which? testing, and seven of the 12 had poor packaging instructions that failed to provide key information for maximising effectiveness and protecting the wearer.
Which? looked for basic information on the packet, like detailed cleaning instructions including washing method, frequency and temperature. Researchers also expected to see clear warnings about how to correctly wear the mask, and confirmation that it was not a medical device.
Which? Magazine editor Harry Rose said: ‘Our tests show there is still work to be done to improve the quality of face coverings. While the best reusable face coverings can be just as effective as a disposable mask, there are still too many that fall short of the mark.
‘We would like to see more manufacturers committing to minimum performance standards for filtration and ensuring basic safety instructions are present, but for now it is worth taking time to research the best option for yourself and your loved ones before buying.’
This is how Which? ranked some of the best selling face coverings available:
Adidas (£17 for a pack of three) – Score: 35%
The Adidas face covering (£17 for a pack of three), sold at retailers including Asos, Next and Sports Direct, only filtered a third of particles
‘This Adidas mask is a popular option. Worrying then, that it only filtered a third of tiny particles, letting the rest escape.
Adidas told us that at the time of its design, there wasn’t an industry standard for non-medical face coverings, but it was tested and developed for breathability and comfort.
‘If you’ve got an Adidas mask, you should either trade up or use the pocket to add a filter and increase the filtration efficiency.’
Vita shield (£9.99 for three) – Score: 39%
The Vita Shield face covering (£9.99 for three) dropped from 60% filtration on first use to 38% after five washes
‘Vita Shield says its mask achieves more than 90% filtration – but our results tell a different story.
‘We found it filtered only 60% of bacterial particles on first use, down to a paltry 38% once it had been washed five times.
‘The Vita Group said its face covering had been tested at external accredited testing facilities, which showed filtration levels of more than 90%.
‘It said that the discrepancies in results demonstrated the need for mandatory, overarching standards to be put in place.’
The Big Silk face mask (£16.90 for one) – Score: 85%
The Big Silk (£16.90 for one) was one of the high performers in Which?’s face covering tests
‘Silk masks are pricey but have a dedicated following, helped by their presence on many a celebrity face. Our first silk mask on test shows they aren’t just a pretty covering though – this Big Silk mask scored well enough to be a Best Buy.
‘Its filtration abilities are good, if a little lower than some of our other top picks, although it improved after washing (73% before, 79% after).
‘There are advantages to silk – it’s meant to be gentler on your skin as it’s less occlusive than other fabrics, and it’s hydrophobic so it repels water droplets. Plus, this is our most breathable Best Buy. It’s got a little more pizzaz than your average mask, handy for smarter occasions.
‘Our testers found it pleasant to wear, and it’s adjustable with ear loops and a nose wire. It also comes in a range of muted colours including black, grey, green, pink and cream.
‘Bear in mind that the brand suggests you wash this mask by hand. You can find it on The Big Silk website.’
Airpop Pocket Mask, (£24.99 for 4/£6.25 per mask) – Score: 94%
The highest-scoring face covering tested was the Airpop Pocket (£24.99 for four), available direct from Airpop or on Amazon
‘This hybrid ‘semi-reusable’ mask is made from three layers of spunbound, non-woven polyester and nylon, similar to disposable masks.
‘It has a foam nose bridge and a collapsible design. It’s superb at filtering particles – 99.9% before washing, and 94% after five washes. And it’s still light and easy to breathe in.
‘Airpop says it can be worn for 40 hours and up to 10 washes before you need to retire it, so it is a more costly option than a fully reusable mask, but it’s a great choice for higher-risk scenarios such as crowded places or public transport.
‘Pack instructions are minimal, although the Airpop website has comprehensive use and washing information. You can also buy a small case to carry the mask in (£10).
‘The Airpop Pocket comes in white and black, and there is an Airpop kids’ mask which is similar but smaller, and comes in white, blue and pink. They’re available at Airpop and Amazon.
‘Are they recyclable? We checked with Wilko – which has launched a trial drop-off scheme for recycling disposable masks in some stores – and it told us the Airpop masks could be recycled via this scheme.’
Superdrug Reusable Cotton Face Coverings (£4.99 for 3/£1.66 per mask) – Score: 86%
Masks from Superdrug (£4.99 for three) scored well in the consumer watchdog’s tests
‘These deceptively simple budget-friendly masks really impressed in our tests. They’re 100% cotton, very breathable and our testers gave them glowing reviews for comfort while wearing. They have a filter pocket, so you can insert a disposable filter to increase filtration further.
‘This is something you may wish to do once you’ve washed and used them a few times – after five washes, we found the filtration efficiency dropped from an impressive 85% to a more average 72%. But with three in the pack, they are a cost-effective and reliable option.
‘You can choose from the more understated white, grey and black, or opt for a pack containing pink, aqua and white masks. They’re available at Superdrug.’
Marks and Spencer reusable jersey face coverings (£9.50 for 5/£1.90 per mask) – Score: 82%
Marks & Spencer (£9.50 for five), also scored well for filtration, breathability and comfort
‘These affordable Marks and Spencer masks, sold in a handy five-pack, are made of two layers of a thick cotton/elastane blend.
‘They do the job well while still being comfortable to breathe through, which is why they are a top pick.
‘Out of the packet, they’re able to filter 86% of tiny particles, and 79% after five washes.
‘They’re not adjustable, so may not suit everyone: one of our panel of testers said this mask was too small for their face, but for the others it was considered well-fitting and comfortable. They’re available at Marks and Spencer.’
